What is the primary purpose of using specialty malts in brewing?

The primary purpose of using specialty malts in brewing is to enhance flavor and color. Specialty malts are typically kilned or roasted longer than base malts, which results in a wide variety of unique flavors that can range from caramel and toffee to chocolate and coffee. These malts contribute not only to the complexity of the beer's taste but also significantly affect its color, providing rich hues that can enhance the visual appeal of the final product.

While increasing bitterness can be a goal achieved through the use of hops, specialty malts are not designed for this purpose. The fermentation time is largely influenced by yeast activity and the sugar content of the ingredients, not by the type of malts used. Lastly, clarity in beer is usually improved through filtration or fining agents rather than through the choice of malts. Thus, the use of specialty malts is primarily focused on improving the flavor profile and color of the beer.